Backyard Bright

    Our backyards are a haven for barbeques, blooming flowerbeds and the occasional game of frisbee with the pup.  But what happens when you encounter a furry little visitor who isn't quite so lively anymore?  We're talking about squirrels, of course – those acrobatic nut-gatherers who sometimes meet their demise in our own green spaces. Fear not, fellow backyardigan! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to handle this situation with respect and a dash of "squirrel zen." Spotting the Signs of a Sleepy Squirrel: First things first, how can you tell if your backyard buddy has kicked the bucket? Here are some clues: Stiffness: A squirrel who's no longer among the living will be rigid and unresponsive to touch. Odor: Nature takes its course, and unfortunately, a deceased animal will emit an unpleasant smell. Flies: If you see a cluster of buzzing insects around a particular spot, that might be your unfortunate indicator. Saying Goodbye to Mr. (or Ms...

The Best Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Early Fall Evenings: Illuminate Your Outdoor Space with Style and Safety  As the vibrant colors of summer slowly fade, and early fall brings a crisp chill in the air, the sun begins to set earlier each day. But shorter days don’t have to mean shorter outdoor enjoyment! With the right lighting, your backyard, patio, or deck can still be the perfect cozy retreat.  Let’s explore some of the best outdoor lighting ideas to create a warm, inviting atmosphere while also enhancing safety during those early fall evenings. 1. Twinkle with String Lights String lights are the quintessential outdoor lighting solution, and for good reason! They’re versatile, easy to install, and instantly transform any space into a magical wonderland. Whether you drape them over your patio umbrella, wind them around tree branches, or create a canopy above your seating area, string lights bring a soft, enchanting glow to your outdoor space. * Opt for energy-efficient LED s...

 Ah, the allure of a flickering fire in the backyard. It conjures images of cozy nights spent under a blanket of stars, roasting marshmallows with loved ones, and unwinding after a long day. But before you rush out and grab a pack of logs, there are a few things to consider. Can you have a fire in your backyard?  The answer, like a good bonfire, is multifaceted. Buckle up, backyard enthusiasts, because we're diving into the world of regulations, safety, and fire feature options to transform your space into a haven of warmth and ambiance. Know Your Limits: Legal Considerations Let's address the elephant in the room (or should we say, the fire pit in the backyard?). Fire regulations vary depending on your location.  Here's the key : always check with your local fire department or municipality to understand the specifics of what's allowed. They'll have the lowdown on permits, burning restrictions (sometimes due to air quality), and fire feature regulations. Sa...

  Transform Your Backyard Into the Perfect Back-to-School Hub (Because Your Kids Deserve Better Than Kitchen Table Chaos) Summer's ending, and while your kids are mourning the loss of sleeping until noon, you're secretly celebrating the return of structure. But before you wave goodbye to those lazy summer days, there's one crucial space that needs your attention: your backyard. Think about it – your outdoor space has been the star of summer fun, hosting everything from epic water balloon fights to those ambitious camping attempts that lasted exactly one hour. Now it's time to transform this neglected paradise into a functional, organized space that'll support your family through the school year ahead. Why Your Backyard Deserves a Back-to-School Makeover Your backyard isn't just where the garden hose lives and the forgotten soccer ball goes to die. It's potential homework headquarters, after-school hangout central, and your secret weapon for maintaining sanit...